With downsizing, layoffs, and other retrenchment measures afflicting both public and private sectors, outplacement consulting has grown from a minor specialty among human resources (HR) firms and practitioners into an important industry. Meyer and Shadle explore changes that have occurred in the outplacement process–as well as its practice–to provide a clearer understanding of what it is and what it offers organizations and their employees. Clearly written and designed to assist management and their HR professionals, the book provides not only an insight into the meaning of job loss and its devastating impact on workers and the organization, but also a way to help lessen the blow to both.

Among the topics explored here are the seven dimensions of the new careerism, an inclusive definition of outplacement, a complete and objective review and analysis of the elements of the outplacement and career transition process, and a description of the different kinds of assessment typically offered as part of outplacement. It also provides an inside look into this multimillion-dollar industry, its organization and markets, trends, and the industry’s burgeoning technology. The authors answer such questions as: Why does one need outplacement counseling? Why do corporations pay for it and how much? How do outplacement firms contact and contract with corporations? How can the outplacement firm provide consultation to downsizing corporations? This book is a well-researched practical resource for all organizations and their employees in this economically difficult decade.